Trump threatens to block Gordie Howe bridge opening amid trade dispute

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Washington: President Donald Trump has declared he will stop the inauguration of the nearly completed Gordie Howe International Bridge a major trade link connecting Detroit, Michigan, with Windsor, Ontario unless Canada agrees to new negotiations and concessions, according to U.S. and international news reports.

Trump took to social media on Monday, saying the United States must be “fully compensated” and that Ottawa must treat the U.S. with “fairness and respect” before he permits the bridge to open later this year. He argued Washington should even own part of the structure, though Canada has funded the project in full.

The $4.6 billion bridge financed by the Canadian federal government and under construction since 2018 was planned to ease cross-border traffic and boost commerce when it opens in early 2026. Experts say blocking it could disrupt supply chains, raise costs for Michigan businesses and strain trade ties with Canada, America’s largest trading partner.

Trump’s ultimatum comes amid escalating tensions over tariffs, agricultural levies and Canada’s expanding economic engagement with China, making the dispute about more than just one piece of infrastructure.

Michigan leaders from both parties have criticized the threat, warning that halting the bridge could hurt jobs and economic activity in a region that relies heavily on cross-border commerce.

Canadian officials have not yet publicly responded, and it remains unclear how Ottawa will react to the U.S. demand for negotiations.